4th installment of the VGNU.
In a time of peace and prosperity in the Hyrule Kingdom, a new evil awakens.
The fate of the future rests on the shoulders of a young boy, as history begins to repeat itself.
(Originally published 2018-2019)
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After a long trek to the edge of the continent and back, Link at last returned to Hyrule Castletown. He rested, he ate, he argued with himself over what to do next, and figured he'd just jump into heading to Lake Hylia without wasting any more time.
He took two steps out of the inn.
"Ah, Link!" Swiftblade called from across the street as he came to greet Link. "You have returned."
"Master Swiftblade," Link bowed.
"It's been a while, just over a week, I'd say," Swiftblade smiled. "How fares your quest?"
"It's slow," Link answered glumly.
"Well, I'd advise you to hurry," Swiftblade said, his voice low as he eyed the small clusters of people moving through the streets.
"I know," Link nodded. "I'm moving as fast-"
"No, that is not what I mean," Swiftblade shook his head, leading Link behind the inn.
"Wha-?"
"The King has been acting suspicious lately," Swiftblade said quietly, keeping an eye out for anyone who might be watching. He knelt in front of Link, but still wasn't looking directly at him. "I fear something dark has taken hold of him."
"... Vaati," Link realized. He remembered when Vaati appeared in front of Hyrule. He'd thought Vaati was just messing with him, but he was there for a reason. "That's what..."
"I think so," Swiftblade said, keeping watch over his shoulder and trying not to look too suspicious himself. "Do not speak to the King, do not go near him. I would be weary of the knights as well, they report you if you act suspicious."
"Do they know the King is not himself?" Link asked.
"They suspect something is amiss," Swiftblade answered. "But they are loyal to a fault. Do not blame their actions, but try to avoid them nonetheless." He straightened up, leaning against the outer wall of the inn. "I have also been researching these... Picori, as you call them."
"What did you find?"
"Apparently, children see them in the library from time to time, though the adults dismiss it as idle rumors. The imaginings of children, they say. But I feel there is truth to their words."
"Okay," Link nodded. "I'll see what I can find."
"Be careful," Swiftblade hissed as Link headed to the library.
___
The library.
It was located in the northern corner of the city, and wasn't used much. Mostly it was where some of the younger kids hung out, since adults rarely seemed to use it. This of course meant it was the messiest place in the city. Books were tucked in the wrong places, or just laying in the middle of the floor; blankets were hidden in corners, and food crumbs littered the shelves. It always felt less like a public area, and more like a child's secret hideout whenever Link came here.
